As I write, bees are abuzz, grass is growing almost too quickly to maintain, and temperatures are soaring into summer degrees. Our 2023-2024 anthology is in process. We held our first member meeting this year, where we recognized volunteers for their time, energy, and passion. I reiterate my endless gratitude here. The blend of volunteers and participating members is the not-so-secret recipe for success. We held our first board meeting, too, with PST leaders eager to start on long-standing programs and new initiatives. The shifting PST year and season seep happiness into every cell. I’m looking forward to the coming summer vibe and what lies ahead for PST.

I’m also preparing for a trek to Roswell, Georgia, in early June to attend the National Federation of State Poetry Societies (NFSPS) Convention. It will be the first I’ve attended in person. I’m excited to meet people I’ve only interacted with via email and Zoom meetings (including PST members!), and I look forward to the programming. During the convention, I’ll provide an annual report during the President’s meeting, and several fellow members will join me as delegates during the NFSPS Plenary session. Many thanks to Russell Strauss, Cynthia Storrs, and JoAn Howerton for volunteering to represent us.

Last month I reported we would end our year on April 30 with 113 members. I was a little low. It was 116 (for those keeping count, that’s a 52% growth over last year). Many thanks to those of you who have already renewed, and a warm welcome to our new members. We’re working on some wonderful opportunities for you this year. A big thank you also to the folks who have stayed in or stepped into volunteer roles for our society: you make member opportunities possible. For those still considering renewal or new membership, we welcome you. Join us for our 71st year.

As our 70th year cools to a close, I feel the heat of what’s coming and the energy of poets across Tennessee. During this past year, several of you had books published (some were first collections; one was an 8th!). Many of you had poems published. (We already have more to celebrate!) This also means we have collected many rejections. And while they sometimes sting a bit, they mean we are doing the work. So let’s celebrate those, too.

Looking ahead, we’re gearing up for monthly members-only contests: to sponsor a contest, get information here. This summer join Jane Hicks and Jim Minick for generative writing workshops. (More great programs are in the works.) Join our new open mic on 1st Tuesdays in Johnson City, Tennessee, a partnership with Poetry Writers Workshop and The Philosopher’s House. Discover more in PST newsletters, on social media, and in meetings.

Here’s to a sizzling summer of poetic practice and a wonderful year for PST. We want you to have a positive experience. If you have any questions or comments, please reach out. I hope to see you soon at a PST event.

With warmth and excitement—
Lisa Kamolnick
President, Poetry Society of Tennessee